Dachshund power to be displayed in Dunedin

CENTER STAGE This Saturday’s Dogtoberfest in Dunedin is highlighted by its star breed of the day: the Dachshund. Dozens of the loveable short-legged canines take part in the annual Running of the Wieners. ERIC HORCHY/STAFF

DUNEDIN — If there’s one thing Dachshunds are built for, it’s pure speed.

With those elongated bodies and short, stubby legs, it’s a wonder militaries from east to west aren’t rigorously studying their biomechanics for the next generation of land-based battlefield vehicles.

Until that day inevitably comes, though, locals can head to Dunedin’s Highlander Park this Saturday and say they saw the raw, laser-focused power up close and personal.

This weekend, of course, kicks of the Suncoast Animal League’s Dogtoberfest 2013, headlined by the little guys’ Running of the Wieners.

Nearly 100 Dachshunds, from full-size to mini, young and old, ran in one of the event’s six age-based classifications last year.

Wiener dog racing is just one of the daylong event’s attractions. Pet owners are invited to bring along all breed’s to check out everything going on throughout the spacious park.

Once the sixth-annual Dogtoberfest begins at 11:30 a.m., everyone is invited to gather for a Blessing of the Animals that will roll right into the first canine competition of the afternoon: Doggie Project Runway. Similar to the ridiculousness of outfits seen sashaying down the catwalk in the human TV show, owners are encouraged to go all out for this doggie costume contest.

A crowning ceremony for the King and Queen of Dogtoberfest will take place later in the afternoon, followed by the My Pet’s Got Talent competition and the Running of the Wieners at 3:30.

In addition to being a light-hearted, fun-loving day in the park, Dogtoberfest is the Suncoast Animal League’s premier annual fundraiser and one of the largest adopt-a-thons in Pinellas County.

Event parking at Highlander Park, 1920 Pinehurst Road, is $4 and admission is free. Any resident and leashed dog is invited to come to from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and more information about the schedule of events and registration can be found by going to www.dogtoberfest.info or calling (727) 786-1330.